Learning is a lifelong journey, and for business owners, staying open to new ideas and strategies is essential. One of the best ways to grow is by connecting with fellow entrepreneurs—whether through reading, networking, or simply listening to their stories. Entrepreneurs, no matter the size of their ventures, offer valuable lessons. From avoiding costly mistakes to recognising inefficient systems, their experiences can guide you through tough times and ensure your business thrives.
In this week’s edition of Stories of Entrepreneurs, we are thrilled to spotlight two inspiring business owners from Mthatha in the Eastern Cape, a region where running a business comes with unique challenges.
Having lived in the Eastern Cape for six years, I can confirm that establishing and growing a business in this part of South Africa is no easy task. With an unemployment rate hovering around 42%, the highest in the country, and scarce resources, entrepreneurs often face an uphill battle. Yet, despite these difficulties, many manage to succeed—proving that with resilience and innovation, businesses can thrive, even in the most testing environments.
However, a troubling trend has recently surfaced in the Eastern Cape and across South Africa—the extortion of money from business owners, particularly those in construction. Criminal groups demand payment for “protection,” threatening to disrupt projects or cause harm if their demands are not met.
This has placed an additional burden on entrepreneurs, who already face significant operational hurdles.
Now, let’s meet our featured entrepreneurs:
Manelisi Gibson
Founder of Zibele Construction, established in 2003, Manelisi has built a solid reputation for delivering high-quality building projects throughout the Eastern Cape. Zibele Construction is known for its commitment to client satisfaction, innovation, and practical project execution.
The company embraces diversity, and its team reflects the inclusive values that are central to its ethos. Born and raised in Ncambela, a small village near Mthatha, Manelisi’s entrepreneurial spirit was evident from a young age.
“I was always a leader. Even when we played soccer, the money for the club stayed with me, and I was the one controlling everything,” he shared. After studying at St John’s College, Manelisi’s dream of becoming a civil engineer began to take shape. While his marks didn’t allow him to pursue that path, he transitioned into building and hasn’t looked back.
Sinazo Mpomane
Sinazo, director of Gerteace and Womandla Projects, manages three thriving businesses: Gertrauce Eats and Catering Services, MaBillion Deco Company, and Gertreace Boutique. Raised in Gumbu, a picturesque village near Mthatha, she now operates businesses across the Eastern Cape and as far as Gauteng. Specialising in décor and event planning for weddings, birthdays, and corporate events, Sinazo prefers working with private clients.
“Most of my clients are private, like the Mineworkers Provident Fund and PSA Union. I hardly work with the government, and I prefer it that way,” she shared during one of our X Spaces discussions.
Sinazo’s entrepreneurial journey started alongside her full-time job as a consultant at Capitec Bank. “I named my first business after my daughter because I want to engage her in business one day,” she explained. Her mother, a teacher, inspired her entrepreneurial spirit early on by encouraging Sinazo to teach other children for 50 cents. Juggling a 9-to-5 job while running a side business, Sinazo eventually resigned during the COVID-19 pandemic and has never looked back.
Nosipho Mkhwanazi
A seasoned psychologist and social worker from KwaZulu-Natal, Nosipho was the only panellist not from the Eastern Cape. With over eight years of experience working in the Department of Education and NICRO, she also served as a lecturer at Durban University of Technology. Eventually, she decided to follow her passion and establish her private practice.
“I was spending so much time at work that wasn’t paying me enough,” Nosipho reflected on her journey. Once her private practice began earning more than her full-time job, she decided to focus solely on her business.
Nosipho’s practice is thriving, and she offers invaluable insight into balancing a demanding career with entrepreneurship. Her determination and experience highlight the importance of believing in one’s abilities and taking bold steps when the time is right.These three entrepreneurs, each from different walks of life and industries—construction, décor, and mental health—illustrate the power of perseverance.
Their journeys, though unique, share common themes of resilience, innovation, and a deep-rooted passion for their work. Whether they have to face personal challenges, operational hurdles, or external threats, these three business owners have shown that with the right mindset, anything is possible. Their stories remind us that entrepreneurship is not just about making money; it’s about creating opportunities, solving problems, and building a better future for ourselves and our communities.